The spring is in place. The hole in the pivot arm for the idler appears to be worn quite a bit. I agree about using the correct parts but a price tag of almost $40 from a local dealer for a belt of this size and type is way too much money. I am still going to try and get the idler arm off and see what I can do to repair this item. The idler wheel and its bearing are really in good condition.

I have read over the manual and compared the belt very closely. There is a slight difference in the cross section of the belt and I may have to bite the bullet on this item. I still want to look at the idler arm pivot bolt setup and recheck the idler pulley and shaft when I take it apart for the 5th time ! I will replace the original spring also.

I was able to remove the idler arm pivot bolt and found this bolt Which is a shoulder bolt was worn considerably. The fiber washer used under the lever was cracked and split also. The lever arm was worn slightly in the bore for the bolt . All of these wear points made the lever flop around. Hopefully when I get some new parts I will be able to restore this washer to its proper operation. Also found that the belt needs to be a 1/2" wide X 30.25 " which may not be available as a will fit item from the local hardware store.

The new belt was installed and the shoulder bolt/idler arm repaired and reinstalled. Original tension spring reinstalled for idler arm lever. Hooked up all lines and plugged it in. No problems with fill part of any cycle. When the timer got to the spin portion however the guts at the bottom end below the transmission started to make a heck of a rat tat tat noise and would not stop until I unplugged the power. I am about ready to throw in the towel on this unit. Anyone have this happen to this brand and model of machine ?

You really need to listen to the techs that are trying to help you. The OEM belt for this washer is special. This machine has no clutch and the 1/3 hp motor can't instantly turn heavy tub of water. Hence the OEM belt - designed to slip and act as a clutch. Put the correct belt on first and then see where you stand.